Wanneroo MLA Paul Miles has been promoted to Minister for Local Government, Community Services, Seniors and Volunteering and Youth.

“Paul has been a strong and committed local member who also understands the importance of how people can contribute and strengthen a community.” Premier Colin Barnett said.

Mr. Miles, who has been Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General and Minister for Commerce since March 2013, said he was looking forward to elevating the important role of seniors and the invaluable work of volunteers in the community.

“As a Lions Club member for 30 years, communities are close to my heart.” Mr. Miles said.

Agricultural scientist and Mining and Pastoral Region MLC Mark Lewis have been appointed Agriculture and Food Minister, Premier Barnett also announced today.

“Before entering State Parliament in 2013, Mark was involved in developing irrigated agricultural opportunities and also held management positions within the Department of Agriculture and Food in a region which covered the extent of his current electorate.” Premier Barnett said.

“Mark was raised on farming, cattle and sheep properties in Queensland and will bring to the portfolio a vast knowledge about the agricultural sector and the challenges it faces.”

The Premier said the sector was among a number of industries critical to the broadening of the Western Australian economy. Appointing a dedicated Minister to the portfolio would ensure the sector was given Mr. Lewis’ full attention in progressing key policies, including upgrading the Doppler tower network and launching the WA Biosecurity Strategy.

New WA Minister for Transport Bill Marmion

Senior Minister Bill Marmion will take on the Transport portfolio.

“Bill was a civil engineer for Main Roads before entering State Parliament. He has been a Minister since 2010 and I have every confidence he is the right person to continue to move forward major public infrastructure projects such as the Forrestfield-Airport Link, NorthLink WA and Roe 8.” Premier Barnett said.

The Premier said Mr. Marmion would divest his Finance portfolio to Sean L’Estrange, who would add the responsibility to his Mines and Petroleum and Small Business roles. Mr. Marmion would retain State Development and Innovation.

“The opportunity for new people, with new ideas, to sit at the State Cabinet table will re-energise the Cabinet and the Liberal National Government as we move toward the March 2017 election.” Premier Barnett said.

Premier Barnett said two new Parliamentary Secretaries had also been appointed.

South Metropolitan Region MLC Nick Goiran will become the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Mental Health and Child Protection.

Carine MLA Tony Krsticevic will be Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General and Minister for Commerce.